Some of our service clubs in town are planning to fundraise together on mutually agreed upon projects.
With declining membership in separate clubs, this will assist in gathering a larger pool of volunteers. I believe this is a healthy approach to cooperation in serving our community.
I mentioned “service clubs” to a millennial – a new century youth – and he stared at me. No connection was found in his cerebral database of people connections or community activities. There seems to be a disconnect between an established approach to community service and what might be labelled as a new day of volunteerism.
Video gamers are encouraged to contribute to social good through online gaming advertisements and enticements. Active internet users help good causes in go-fund-me campaigns. Tribes of friends join in assisting each other.
A distrust of institutional organizations has pushed some into serving others in a much more private way. The credit card provides the financial means. Contractors provide the expertise secured by these fundraisers. Service is often found in the administration and funding of a project and not the direct hands-on labour.
I am a strong proponent of helping your neighbours. In the famous story that Jesus told of the Good Samaritan, neighbours are much more than those we are related to, or even like – a neighbour is also the person we don’t like. so serving your neighbour intentionally includes the whole neighbourhood, community, and region.
One social scientist tells us that uncoerced generosity is the sign of human flourishing – of living a vital and enjoyable life. When combined with an attitude of gratitude for others and a healthy enjoyment of doing for others what they would do for you – a community thrives and survives.
You cannot effectively react to emergencies without proven networks and previous interaction between humans. You can put your thumb in the unexpected leak for a moment, but you will tire quickly if there is no support.
The best support is intentionally organized prior to the crisis. The best support group is already in place or quickly assembled from known contacts.
The name of the club of people who work together is irrelevant. This may be a church group, a Facebook group, a motorcycle club, a gamers’ group, a mom’s care group, a men’s coffee group, an emergency response team – or whatever you name it.
The question is, can you name a group? A group that you work with for the sake of your community and the world.
If not, you may be missing one of the greatest opportunities for overcoming depression, combating hopelessness and even finding a good night’s rest.
Join a service club!
